Southern California professionals take pride in a fast-paced lifestyle.
“How are you?”
Deep inhale and smile, “Busy!”
Those who drive the speed limit take their lives in their hands, even in the slow lane. Commuters weave in and out of tight spaces to get one car ahead, and motorcyclists zoom between cars going 70+ miles an hour.
This morning commute sets the pace for the day. Days are filled with meetings, one-right-after another with barely time to speedwalk to the next meeting. While in the meetings, attendees multitask, answering phones, texting, and emailing, all the while, contributing to the meeting discussions.
Evenings are times to get the work accomplished that was neglected during meetings.
While I was reading Rhythms of Rest: Finding the Spirit of Sabbath in a Busy World by Shelly Miller, God prompted me to stop and consider my ways. Just last week, I came home and devoured dark chocolate to try to help relieve the stress of my busy day.
Rhythms of Rest explores the intent of God in establishing the Sabbath.
This book is for anyone who is frustrated with the busyness of everyday life and longs to withdraw into the presence of God.
“Sabbath is the exhale required after six days of inhaling our work.” (Beginnings)
Miller is careful to emphasize that her Sabbath is not a legalistic Sabbath but a day of rest. This day takes planning and preparation and can be the highlight of the week; yet, it needs practice and is different for everyone. While her designated Sabbath is Sunday, her husband’s day is another day.
“Jesus is Sabbath. When we make the day different on his behalf, holiness inhabits our intentions.” (Beginnings)
Miller began Sabbath Society because she was “tired of living with continual unrest in my soul.” Hundreds have joined Sabbath Society. The book grew out of Miller’s experiences and those of the members of Sabbath Society.
God created the earth in six days, and on the seventh day, He rested. He established a rhythm of rest for the world to follow.
When we were in Austria, we visited a farm that had been in the family since 1776. This family was renown for its extraordinary stewardship of the land. One of the principles that they farmed by was that the land would rest on the seventh year – straight from Leviticus.
Miller reminds us that “Sabbath is love written large, declaring God is good; he remembers the promises between us.” (Watch for the Arrows)
Come to Me all you who are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:28-29
Jesus is our Sabbath, our promise for the deep spiritual rest that we crave.
I received a galley copy from the publisher for my honest review.
My prayer
Lord of the Sabbath, thank You for Shelly Miller and her passion for knowing Your intent of the Sabbath. Bless her with Your rest for her soul. Pour out Your wisdom upon her, and bless her in all that she does. Father, stir up our souls to seek Your rest and to become ever-aware of Your Presence and work in our lives. We love you, Lord. Amen
Pause throughout your day … today, tomorrow, and throughout the week to pray this promise of rest.
